Wedding Party
Anna Schwartz
Matron of Honor
Christy and Anna have been friends since middle school, and spent their high school years attending more concerts than they can count. When Anna moved to Minneapolis over a decade ago, distance only made their friendship stronger, with many visits back and forth over the years. Now, they’ve come full circle and even get to work together!
April Barkley
Bridesmaid
Christy and April met while attending Columbia College Chicago, where they bonded over quirky journalism professors and late-night writing assignments. They graduated together and have remained close ever since. Now both moms to young boys, they happily share “auntie” duties in each other’s families, making their friendship all the more special.
Kate Lyons
Bridesmaid
Christy and Kate grew up together as cousins born just two months apart. Over the years, they’ve shared countless memories—from mischievous moments like covering their grandparents’ dog in mud to learning to play Euchre during visits to Bradley University. Their lifelong bond is filled with laughter, tradition, and a whole lot of fun.
Taylor Bancroft
Bridesmaid
Christy and Taylor are cousins who grew up more like sisters, especially after their grandmother moved to Illinois with Taylor while Christy was in middle school. Though Taylor now calls Colorado home, their close, sisterly bond remains as strong as ever—along with their shared love of ’90s boy band hits!
Dylan Barkei
Best Man
Dylan is Jared’s oldest son and has proudly followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the same company. Thanks to their striking resemblance, it’s not uncommon for people to do a double take—or even mix them up entirely! Beyond just looking alike, Dylan shares his dad’s strong work ethic and easygoing nature. It’s clear the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and their close bond makes their similarities all the more special.
Domenic Barkei
Best Man
Domenic is Jared’s second oldest son and a senior in high school. He shares many of his dad’s favorite hobbies—from riding dirt bikes and four-wheelers to spending time working on his truck. In fact, his black Silverado looks a lot like his dad’s, making it clear where he gets his inspiration. Domenic’s love for hands-on projects and the outdoors is just another way he and Jared connect so well.
Daniel Barkei
Best Man
Daniel is Jared’s youngest high schooler, currently a freshman and a member of the high school football team. He and Jared share a love for watching football and other sports together, often turning games into friendly competitions with their own fun bets—though Daniel tends to come out on top! Their shared passion for sports makes for plenty of memorable moments and a little healthy rivalry along the way.
Mila Schwartz
Flower Girl
Mila is Christy’s 6-year-old goddaughter and a first grader who loves playing tee ball and being part of her Girl Scout troop. With a natural sense of adventure, she’s always eager to explore new places and meet new friends. She’s especially excited to celebrate as a flower girl, where she’ll wear a beautiful dress and be part of her fairy godmother’s special day!
Vivian Balles
Flower Girl
Vivian is Jared’s 10-year-old niece and a proud fifth grader—almost a middle schooler! She has a passion for swimming and competes on a swim team. During the celebration, you’ll likely find her right where she’s happiest: in the water at the resort!
Jackson Balles
Ring Bearer
Jack is Jared’s 7-year-old nephew and a second grader with lots of energy and personality. Like his sister, he loves swimming, but he’s also a big fan of flag football—go Bulldogs! Jack is incredibly outgoing and a true social butterfly, so you’ll likely find him making new friends all around the resort.
Cooper Barkei
Ring Bearer
Cooper is Jared and Christy’s one-year-old son, who has recently discovered the joy of being on the move! As their littlest adventurer, this wedding marks his first international trip—and even his very first plane ride. He may be small, but he’s ready to celebrate in a big way as he joins Mom and Dad for their special day.